Michigan (6-0) vs. Illinois (2-4) Game Preview

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When we last saw Michigan, it was ripping apart Rutgers 78-0 – and being relatively merciful along the way, even if the score didn’t show it – and since then, the schedule is starting to look even easier and better.

The road game at Michigan State now looks like a layup, while the date at Iowa doesn’t appear to be a big deal now. Throw in the home games against Maryland and Indiana, and barring a total meltdown, the next five games will be nothing more than tune-ups for Ohio State.

And the second half of the rest of Michigan’s season starts with a light scrimmage against Illinois.

The Illini came up with their own blowout over Rutgers, and while it might not have been a 78-point blasting, it was an effective and easy 24-7 breather.

It’s been a tough run for Lovie Smith in his first year, but if there’s a potential saving grace in this game, it’s the defense that’s doing a fantastic job of forcing mistakes, coming up with five against Rutgers and being on the plus side of the turnover margin four times so far – they’re a +8 on the year.

But the Illinois offense isn’t going anywhere against a rested and ready defense that leads the nation in yards allowed, pass defense, and points allowed. The Illini won’t be able to move the chains a lick, with no downfield passing game to loosen anything up.

With starting quarterback Wes Lunt having a problem with a back injury, and backup Chayce Crouch struggling with a shoulder problem, it’s uh-oh time for the Fighting Lovies against Mr. Peppers and company.